Football
UEFA could change rule that left Arsenal at a huge disadvantage against PSG
UEFA is reportedly exploring a change to the Champions League format for next season in response to the concerns raised after Arsenal’s semi-final exit against Paris Saint-Germain.
The Gunners faced a tough task at Parc des Princes, entering the second leg with a one-goal deficit. Hopes of a comeback were dashed early, as Ousmane Dembele found the net within three minutes, setting the tone for a difficult night in Paris.

PSG, needing only a draw at home to advance to the final in Munich, delivered a dominant display. A 2-1 victory on the night secured their place in the final, thanks in large part to the brilliance of Gianluigi Donnarumma.
The Italian goalkeeper produced several key saves across both legs, playing a crucial role in preserving PSG’s advantage.
While Arsenal managed to pull one goal back through Bukayo Saka late in the match, it wasn’t enough.
Many Arsenal supporters were left questioning why a team that topped their group and finished well ahead of PSG in the standings wasn’t rewarded with home advantage in the second leg. Their earlier 2-0 victory over the French side in London only added to the frustration.
Under current UEFA regulations, knockout round fixtures are determined through an open draw, regardless of group performance.
This system saw Arsenal, despite being a seeded team, play both their quarter-final and semi-final second legs away from home. The atmosphere at Parc des Princes was intense and undoubtedly boosted PSG, who capitalized on their home support to great effect.
According to reports from The i, UEFA officials have held internal discussions and are considering adjustments to ensure a fairer system moving forward.
The proposed format would guarantee seeded teams a second-leg home tie until they face another seeded side. In that scenario, the team with the higher group-stage ranking would host the decisive match.
Mikel Arteta expressed pride in his squad’s journey despite another season without silverware. This marks five consecutive years without a major trophy for the North London side.
Arteta highlighted the progress his team has made, noting that just two years ago, few believed Arsenal would even qualify for the Champions League, let alone reach the semi-finals and contend domestically.
Arteta emphasized that while the disappointment is real, the growth and development of the team are undeniable.
The Gunners pushed PSG to the limit and came close to turning the tie around. The Spanish manager believes the experience gained this season will be vital in taking the next step.
As Arsenal fans reflect on what might have been, attention now shifts to UEFA’s potential reform. If implemented, the new rule could provide a fairer structure that rewards strong group-stage performances and eliminates the current imbalance.
Whether or not home advantage would have changed Arsenal’s fate remains uncertain, but the debate has sparked a necessary conversation about fairness in Europe’s most prestigious club competition.
Football
FIFA finally sanctions Israel and sounds message for peace: Here’s why
FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has taken action against the Israel Football Association (IFA) after finding breaches of its rules relating to offensive conduct, fair play, and incidents involving discrimination and racist behavior.
As part of the ruling, the IFA has been fined CHF 150,000 (around €165,000), with conditions attached. The federation is required to roll out preventive measures, including displaying a clear anti-discrimination message at its next three home matches in FIFA competitions. The message, which promotes unity and rejects discrimination, must appear alongside the federation’s emblem, with its design, size, and placement submitted to FIFA for approval at least 15 days before each fixture.
Beyond matchday requirements, the IFA must also take longer-term action. Within 60 days, it is expected to allocate one-third of the fine toward a detailed anti-discrimination initiative. This program is set to include structural improvements, defined protocols, monitoring systems, and educational campaigns across stadiums and official platforms throughout an entire season, all subject to FIFA’s approval. The remaining portion of the fine must be settled within 30 days. FIFA has also issued a formal warning regarding future conduct, with the option for the IFA to appeal the decision.
In relation to a separate complaint raised by the Palestinian Football Association concerning teams based in disputed territories, FIFA chose not to impose any measures. The governing body pointed to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the legal status of the West Bank under international law, but emphasized its willingness to encourage dialogue and mediation between both sides.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated the organization’s stance on the role of football during periods of political tension, stressing that while the sport cannot solve global conflicts, it can still play a part in bringing people together and fostering understanding through competitions like the World Cup.
Football
New angle emerges of massive brawl in Brazil: Brutal close-range fight footage (VIDEO)
The Minas Gerais state championship final between Cruzeiro Esporte Clube and Clube Atlético Mineiro ended in chaos on Sunday, with a massive on-field brawl. Cruzeiro secured a 1-0 victory, but the match will be remembered for the violent fallout.
Reports from Brazilian media indicate that the referee issued an additional 23 red cards following the melee.
The incident that sparked the conflict occurred in the 97th minute inside Atletico’s penalty area after a collision between Christian of Cruzeiro and home goalkeeper Everson. Everson reacted aggressively, first pushing Christian and then pinning him to the ground with both knees.
Close-range footage of the altercation later surfaced online, showing the intensity of the clash and adding fuel to an already controversial derby.
This extraordinary sequence will likely result in disciplinary action from the league and raises questions about player conduct in high-stakes matches.
Football
Michael Carrick blow as ‘prominent’ target on Man Utd’s managerial shortlist is ‘keen’ on Old Trafford job
Former Brighton & Hove Albion FC boss Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly “keen” on becoming the next manager of Manchester United FC.
The 46-year-old is currently without a club after leaving Olympique de Marseille by mutual agreement last month. Both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur FC have been linked with a summer move for the Italian as they search for a permanent head coach.
According to reports from The Telegraph, De Zerbi would favour the Old Trafford role if given the choice.
His potential appointment could be a setback for interim United boss Michael Carrick, who has largely impressed since taking charge in January.
Carrick suffered his first defeat on Wednesday as United lost to Newcastle United FC, with goals from Anthony Gordon and William Osula sealing the result.
Despite that setback, several United players are believed to support Carrick being given the role permanently. Senior figures such as Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw are reportedly impressed by his tactical ideas and deep understanding of the game.
United’s hierarchy have yet to decide whether to stick with the former England international or appoint a new manager. Other names linked with the role include Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto Martínez.
De Zerbi has also been mentioned as a potential candidate at Tottenham. Spurs currently sit 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone.
The club dismissed former head coach Thomas Frank last month and appointed Igor Tudor as interim manager.
Tudor has yet to register a win, but after a recent defeat to Crystal Palace FC he insisted the team is still moving in the right direction.
“Unfortunately this is the moment we pay for everything. One red card changes everything,” Tudor said.
“Maybe it will sound strange, but I believe more after this game than before. I saw something. I need to choose the right players because the boat is going in the direction that I want it to go.
“When the injured players return, I’m sure we will have a good team and the victories will come. It’s not easy to accept where we are now, but it is how it is.”
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